Meniscal tear is one of the most common knee injuries. Any activity that causes you to forcefully twist or rotate your knee, especially putting full weight on it can lead to a tear meniscus.
Each knee has two C-shaped cartilages called meniscus. Meniscus acts like a cushion between the shin bone and thigh bone.
If you have a torn meniscus, pain is usually felt on the outer(lateral) or inner(medial) side of the knee. You can experience a popping sensation, a feeling as though your knee is locked in place when you try to move it. Sometimes you may feel your knee giving way.
A torn meniscus can be identified during physical examination. MRI can be used to identify the meniscal tear. Unless the tear is very small, it is unlikely to heal on its own and if left untreated can cause serious complications. It may continue to to catch and lock inside the knee resulting in long term joint irritation and damage leading to osteoarthritis.
Knee Arthroscopy is a common procedure performed to examine and treat the meniscal tear. It is done as an outpatient procedure. An arthroscope is inserted through a tiny incision with a small camera attached allowing to view and access all areas inside the knee joint.
We can repair the damaged meniscus or remove a torn piece to relieve pain and mechanical symptoms allowing the knee to return to normal function.
Return to sports is attained after 3-6 months of physical therapy.
If you suspect that you may have a Meniscal tear, it is important to consult with our Sports Medicine Orthopedic specialists for proper evaluation and management.